Eid al-Adha, a cherished holiday celebrated by Muslims around the world, finds its roots in a profound religious account embedded in the teachings of Islam. When asked about the origin of Eid al-Adha, the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad, is reported to have said, “It is a tradition that has come down to us from Ibrahim (Abraham).” This statement highlights the sacred lineage of this observance, tracing back to the revered figure of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).
Introduction:
Eid al-Adha, widely referred to as the Feast of Sacrifice, holds profound significance for Muslims across the globe. This momentous occasion embodies essential values of unity, compassion, and selflessness. It serves as a powerful reminder for individuals to embrace the teachings of peace, love, and respect. By coming together during this sacred observance, we have the opportunity to reflect on our shared humanity, foster understanding, and transcend differences. Through this collective effort, we can strive to build a world where the true spirit of Islam shines brightly, condemning actions that misrepresent it and embracing a message of harmony and unity for all.
The Origin:
Eid al-Adha, a cherished holiday celebrated by Muslims around the world, finds its roots in a profound religious account embedded in the teachings of Islam. When asked about the origin of Eid al-Adha, the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad, is reported to have said, “It is a tradition that has come down to us from Ibrahim (Abraham).” This statement highlights the sacred lineage of this observance, tracing back to the revered figure of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).
The story of Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham) unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his beloved son, Ishmael, in obedience to God’s command forms the foundation of Eid al-Adha. In a pivotal moment, the divine intervention of the angelic emissary, Gabriel, replaced Ishmael with a majestic ram, symbolising God’s mercy and compassion. This profound narrative, passed down through generations, has become an integral part of Islamic tradition and holds deep significance for Muslims worldwide.
During the joyous days of Eid al-Adha, Muslims come together to honour and commemorate this ancient heritage. They embrace the spirit of selflessness, unity, and devotion, just as Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) did. Through acts of worship, communal prayers, and acts of charity, Muslims seek to emulate the values exemplified by Prophet Abraham and his unwavering commitment to God. Eid al-Adha stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of faith, resilience, and obedience, inviting Muslims to reflect on the teachings and wisdom passed down from their noble predecessors.
Eid’s Core and Pillars:
Eid al-Adha bears profound messages of peace, coexistence, and cohesion, encapsulated within its four pillars: embracing, sharing and loving, compassion, and maintaining a close connection with Allah while obeying His divine commands. The act of changing routes after the Eid Prayer stands as a poignant embodiment of these ideals. This cherished tradition carries immense significance, as it inspires Muslims to expand their social circles and actively engage with a wider community.
Embracing Unity Through Altered Routes:
By deliberately deviating from their usual paths, individuals seize the opportunity to exchange heartfelt greetings, nurturing unity and fortifying social bonds. This tradition reflects the wisdom of Prophet Muhammad, underscoring the importance of human connection and reminding us that Eid is not merely a personal celebration, but also a chance to spread joy, love, and compassion.
Changing routes symbolises a call to reach out, break barriers, and foster harmonious relationships. It prompts Muslims to embrace the diversity within their communities, creating an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding. This act of sacrifice signifies a willingness to make small sacrifices for the greater good, highlighting that true celebration lies in selflessness and genuine connections.
يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّاسُ إِنَّا خَلَقْنَـٰكُم مِّن ذَكَرٍۢ وَأُنثَىٰ وَجَعَلْنَـٰكُمْ شُعُوبًۭا وَقَبَآئِلَ لِتَعَارَفُوٓا۟ ۚ إِنَّ أَكْرَمَكُمْ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ أَتْقَىٰكُمْ ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ خَبِيرٌۭ ١٣
“O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.”
In an era dominated by digital interactions, and virtual meetings, this practice offers a tangible opportunity to prioritise face-to-face encounters, emphasising the value of personal relationships. By following the Sunnah (the Way) of changing routes on Eid, Muslims are urged to contribute to the larger narrative of peace, unity, and social harmony. Through these seemingly small yet significant gestures, we collectively work towards a world where social cohesion, respect, and compassion thrive, echoing the true spirit of Eid al-Adha.
The Offering of Udhiyyah: A Symbol of Sharing and Compassion
The offering of the udhiyyah (ritual animal sacrifice) Eid al-Adha holds immense significance, embodying the values of sharing and caring deeply ingrained in the hearts of Muslims. Endorsed by the Prophet Muhammad, this sacred ritual encourages the active participation of all family members, providing them with an opportunity to witness and understand the profound essence of sacrifice.
The udhiyyah carries a symbolic weight, serving as a powerful reminder to Muslims of their unwavering devotion and willingness to sacrifice for the sake of Allah. It harkens back to the extraordinary act of obedience demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was prepared to offer his own son as a testament to his profound faith. This act of surrender and devotion encapsulates the core principles of Islamic faith and serves as a timeless reminder of the profound connection between humanity and the divine.
لَن يَنَالَ اللَّهَ لُحُومُهَا وَلَا دِمَاؤُهَا وَلَٰكِن يَنَالُهُ التَّقْوَىٰ مِنكُمْ ۚ كَذَٰلِكَ سَخَّرَهَا لَكُمْ لِتُكَبِّرُوا اللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا هَدَاكُمْ ۗ وَبَشِّرِ الْمُحْسِنِينَ﴾[ الحج: 37])
Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and give good tidings to the doers of good. Surah Al-Hajj Full
Nurturing Family Ties and Strengthening Bonds
The teachings of the Qur’an and the prophetic traditions hold a profound emphasis on the unity and brotherhood/sisterhood of Muslims, highlighting the significance of tending to the needs of fellow believers. It is a fundamental duty for Muslims to actively maintain family ties and foster relationships within their community. Understanding and practising this invaluable lesson of Eid al-Adha has the potential to catalyse positive transformation within Muslim societies.
Eid is not merely a day of celebration; it is an occasion to exchange visits and fortify family bonds. Upholding kinship ties is a prescribed obligation that every Muslim should fulfil while also recognising the importance of extending care, compassion, and solidarity to all of humanity, transcending the boundaries of “us” and “them.” Eid presents a golden opportunity to bring together family members, visit relatives, friends, and community members and humanity at large. It is a day that should not pass without earnestly endeavouring to connect with one’s relatives ,friends and loved ones, whether through personal visits, heartfelt phone calls, or even sincere emails, as a means to exchange Eid greetings and strengthen the sacred bonds of kinship.
By prioritising the act of maintaining family ties, Muslims actively uphold the values of unity and solidarity within their communities. The family serves as the bedrock of society, and the cultivation of strong familial relationships contributes to a cohesive and supportive social fabric. When Muslims conscientiously reach out to their relatives on Eid, they exemplify the vital importance of nurturing these connections and reaffirm the profound sense of belonging and shared destiny that unites them.
Furthermore, visiting relatives and community members on Eid fosters a sense of communal harmony and strengthens the bonds of friendship. It provides an opportunity to connect with others, celebrate shared values, and establish a sense of belonging within the broader Muslim community. These visits are not mere formalities; they are sincere gestures of love, care, and concern. They embody the teachings of Islam that encourage Muslims to be compassionate and caring towards one another.
Seeking Proximity to Allah and Acts of Benevolence
Eid stands as a sacred occasion for Muslims to draw nearer to Allah through acts of piety and benevolence. It serves as a time when believers are encouraged to engage in various forms of worship and extend compassion towards others. Through righteous deeds, Muslims fulfil their religious obligations and actively contribute to the betterment of society.
At the heart of the Eid observance lies the offering of prayers. Muslims unite in communal prayer gatherings, known as the Eid prayers, to express gratitude to Allah for His abundant blessings and boundless mercy. These prayers serve as a poignant reminder of the profound significance of cultivating a strong connection with the Divine, seeking His guidance, and seeking forgiveness for any transgressions committed.
(فَاذْكُرُونِي أَذْكُرْكُمْ وَاشْكُرُوا لِي وَلَا تَكْفُرُونِ﴾[ البقرة: 152])
So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.
In conjunction with prayers, the utmost importance is placed on caring for and supporting the impoverished and the needy during Eid. Muslims are encouraged to extend a helping hand to those less fortunate, embodying compassion and empathy towards their fellow human beings. This act of charity embodies the teachings of Islam, which stress the significance of sharing one’s blessings and providing assistance to those in need. By alleviating the suffering of others and fulfilling their needs, Muslims epitomise the spirit of selflessness and generosity that Eid encompasses.
Additionally, visiting the sick and offering support to those in distress are esteemed acts on this blessed day. It presents an opportunity to demonstrate empathy and solace to those experiencing hardship or illness. By extending care and support to the sick and vulnerable, Muslims exemplify the values of compassion and kindness that lie at the core of Islam.
The Hajj pilgrimage culminates with Eid-al-Adha which is also known as Bakra Eid.
The Hajj: A Sacred Journey of Spiritual Significance
Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, is a transformative journey of spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. It symbolises unity, equality, and devotion to Allah, as pilgrims perform sacred rituals that trace back to the traditions of Prophet Muhammad and Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). This universal gathering fosters a sense of community, compassion, and solidarity, while the physical and spiritual acts of Hajj purify hearts, strengthen the bond with Allah, and serve as a constant reminder of life’s purpose and the pursuit of righteousness in the footsteps of the prophets.
Embracing the True Spirit of Islam:
A Call for Authenticity and Compassion
Eid al-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the true essence of Islam. It calls upon Muslims to embody the core principles of unity, compassion, and devotion to Allah, rejecting the traps set by those who exploit it.
True Islam advocates compassion, justice, and mercy for all humanity, urging the rejection of division and the pursuit of understanding and harmony.
On this auspicious Eid, let us reaffirm our commitment to practising authentic Islam. We must reject ideologies that promote hatred, violence, or injustice, and instead embody the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, who exemplified compassion, forgiveness, and social harmony. May Eid al-Adha inspire Muslims worldwide to embrace the true essence of their faith, rejecting distortions and working together for a future where the values of Islam — peace, love, and respect — prevail, benefiting not just Muslims, but all of humanity.
Let us conclude with a verse from Ephesians 2:14 (NIV), which beautifully reflects the shared values of peace, love, and respect that are foundational to both Islam and Christianity. The verse from Ephesians 2:14 states, “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” This powerful verse reminds us that in our pursuit of unity and understanding, we can find peace through embracing our shared values and breaking down the barriers that divide us.
